Helpful Information To Determine The Cause Of Your Sore Eyelid

There are a few different infections or conditions that could ultimately be causing you to have a sore eyelid, however, sometimes there is just not an explainable reason at all. It is always recommended if you feel that you could have a serious condition to consult an Ophthalmologist. Eye infections, if left untreated can cause scarring, blindness and eye ulcers.

Allergies

Allergies are the most common reason for suffering from a sore eyelid. This is generally associated with itching or pain of the upper eyelid and often described as feeling as though you have sand in your eyes. It is sometimes accompanied with redness or a rash.

New cosmetics, beauty or personal hygiene products are usually the underlying cause of an allergic reaction. Although the symptoms may be a bit uncomfortable, there is not much of a need for concern and your sore eyelid will be as good as new after you discontinue use of the product.

Additionally, environmentally triggered allergies such as pollen, dust, dander, etc can also cause your eyes to become itchy and irritated.

Chronic Eyelid Infections

If the lash line and eyelid become infected, it can cause you to have a severely sore eyelid. This often is a recurring infection that brings along symptoms of skin crusts and redness. This is often a health problem that is directly connected to eczema that can appear on the entire body, including your eyes. Creams and antibiotics sometimes can be helpful depending on the severity of the infection, however in some people, they do not help at all.

Herpes Simplex Eye Disease

Both types of the herpes simplex virus can infect your eyes. Although the sexually transmitted disease can spread to the eye area, the most common cause for herpes that cause a sore eyelid is from the type of virus that creates fever blisters and cold sores. Most people are exposed to this at a young age and it never goes away, instead it just becomes dormant in your skin and nerves.

Often if you have a cold sore or fever blister and you touch it and then rub your eyes, your eyes will become infected shortly after as this is a very contagious disease. Herpes simplex can do severe damage to your cornea if left untreated.

Sty

If the gland around your eye becomes infected, it produces a sty. The infection begins with a sore eyelid and then progresses into the appearance of a pimple. The sty can appear anywhere around the eye and it is as painful as it is unpleasant to look at.

Usually the sty will eventually burst by itself however, your doctor can also prescribe a special cream that will help to speed this process up. It is advised to never squeeze the sty because it can cause the infection to become much worse.

A sty rarely ever requires surgery unless your eye health is in immediate danger. If you experience recurring sties, it could be the result of a genetic disposition, weak immune system or diabetes. If you are experiencing sties more than once a year you will definitely want to be checked by your doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Other Causes

Your sore eyelid can also be caused by infected tear glands or warts, both of which can be treated or removed. If you soreness turns into all over eye irritation and your vision is affected, you need to seek medical attention because the problem could be caused by something much more serious such as a cancerous ulcer, glaucoma or an eye cataract.